Little Muddy River (Illinois) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Little Muddy River |
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| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Richview Township, Washington County, Illinois 38°21′56″N 89°12′38″W / 38.3656053°N 89.2106324°W |
| River mouth | Confluence with the Big Muddy River 37°49′07″N 89°11′21″W / 37.8186616°N 89.1892484°W |
| Length | 72.9 mi (117.3 km) |
The Little Muddy River is a river located in Illinois, USA. It flows for about 72.9 miles (117.3 kilometers). This river is a smaller stream that joins a larger one, the Big Muddy River. We call a smaller river that flows into a bigger one a tributary. The Little Muddy River also helps form the border between Franklin and Perry counties.
About the Little Muddy River
The Little Muddy River starts in Richview Township, Washington County, Illinois. From there, it flows generally south and west. Its journey ends when it meets the Big Muddy River. This meeting point is called a confluence. Rivers like the Little Muddy are important. They provide water for plants and animals. They also help shape the land around them.
Where the River Flows
The Little Muddy River flows through different areas in Illinois. It passes by or helps drain water from several cities and towns. These include:
Understanding a River's Watershed
A river's watershed is all the land area where water drains into that river. Think of it like a giant bowl. Any rain or snow that falls in that bowl will eventually flow into the river. The Little Muddy River has a watershed that covers parts of several counties. These counties are:
This means that water from these areas eventually makes its way into the Little Muddy River. Taking care of the land in a watershed helps keep the river clean and healthy.
